#126 - Physical Therapy for Children with Down Syndrome and More with Jake Kreindler

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Physical Therapy for Children with Down Syndrome and More with Jake Kreindler

Today’s episode is a fantastic conversation with Jake Kreindler, a Pediatric Physical Therapist and a Level 3 Cuevas MEDEK Exercise Specialist. Jake has traveled around the world, helping children and families reach their goals. He currently works in New York, performing regular and intensive therapy sessions. 

LINKS

• Jake’s Instagram @getyourbabymoving 

• Jake’s website - getyourbabymoving.com

• Down Syndrome: A Physical Therapy Perspective (article) 

• Building Your Baby (website)

Physical Therapy For Children With Down Syndrome And More With Jake Jreindler

Jake Kreidler, a dedicated pediatric physical therapist and loving father of five, completed his education at Touro College in New York in September 1997, laying the groundwork for his successful career in physical therapy. Notably, in 2004, Jake attained the esteemed level three specialization in Cuevas MEDEK exercises, further enhancing his expertise and capability to deliver exceptional care.

Passion For The Down Syndrome Community

Jake has a wealth of experience working with children with neurological delays, metabolic disorders, and genetic conditions. From a physical therapy standpoint, Jake demonstrates a deep empathy for these children, who are often misunderstood by society, as they bravely confront significant obstacles.

Among them, children with Down Syndrome encounter distinctive challenges. These encompass diminished muscle tone and laxity of ligaments, which substantially heighten the likelihood of setbacks in the acquisition of gross motor skills.

Additionally, numerous individuals face cardiac problems that pose a significant challenge due to the intricate nature of their treatment. Moreover, addressing these obstacles becomes even more complex when it involves children, who may struggle to articulate their fatigue and difficulties.

Changing Society's View of Down Syndrome

Through his interactions with children with Down Syndrome, Jake has witnessed how they thrive and contribute significantly to society. With unwavering dedication, Jake advocates for the crucial importance of education and awareness among medical professionals, the general public, and the special needs community.

Jake feels frustrated by the medical community's pervasive assumption and seemingly prophetic prediction regarding Down syndrome. Right from the moment parents learn about their pregnancy or welcome their child into the world, they are immediately informed to expect a 50% delay in gross motor skills.

With unwavering conviction, Jake firmly believes that children can achieve their developmental milestones in gross motor skills within the expected timeframe when provided with proper guidance and a positive parental mindset. It requires the right attitude, proactive measures, and unwavering consistency.

Physical Therapy Techniques For Children With Down Syndrome

Jake actively partners with parents to identify and prioritize areas needing support, ensuring the optimal development of gross motor skills. His intentional and proactive approach motivates children to participate in physical activities actively, transforming movement from passive to dynamic.

Neuro-Developmental Treatment (NDT)

For the past 50-60 years, NDT has been at the forefront of Pediatric Physical and Occupational Therapy. A fundamental principle of NDT is facilitation, which involves actively supporting and guiding children through movements; however, it has often relied on a more passive approach.

Aquatic Therapy

A swimming pool offers a remarkable advantage in physical therapy: it provides flotation and counteracts the effects of gravity. In the water, children can explore new sensations and movements distinct from those experienced on land.

Engaging in water activities brings immense joy and freedom and allows for unique opportunities to explore movement possibilities that are otherwise limited on land. By incorporating resistance exercises while standing in the water, children can enhance muscle strength and flexibility in a gentle, low-impact environment.

Improving Trunk Control

Individuals with a well-developed core exhibit superior aptitude in performing delicate motor skills compared to individuals with low muscle tone, weakness, and instability in their core. By giving priority to tummy time, you establish a solid foundation for enhancing stability and mobility skills.## Home Exercise Routines

Aligning Existing Skills With Developmental Milestones

As parents of a child with Down Syndrome, it is crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of what to expect during "typical" development. This knowledge empowers you to set achievable goals and support their progress in areas that need attention.

By shifting the perspective from a deficit-oriented viewpoint to one that embraces nurturing strengths, you can bridge the gap between our existing abilities and achieving new objectives. Parents should keep a few crucial considerations in mind to effectively implement this approach.

1. Early intervention is of utmost importance. Initiate activities such as tummy time at the earliest opportunity, primarily cultivating robust head and trunk control.
2. Maintain unwavering dedication and strive for consistency. By providing the child with ample opportunities to engage in brain-stimulating activities, you expose them to new experiences and allow them much time to practice and improve.
3. If your child requires developmental support, hiring someone who can provide the necessary guidance is crucial. Prioritizing finding the right mentor for your baby's success is paramount.

Empowering parents to advocate for themselves and their children confidently is paramount. Parents should feel encouraged to voice their concerns and seek guidance on practical techniques that can be implemented at home.

Final Thoughts

If physical therapy is not readily available or you feel it's insufficient, it's worth considering seeking out a professional you genuinely connect with and hold in high regard. Don't hesitate to reach out to someone whose work you admire and respect.

Understanding that progress extends beyond therapy sessions alone is crucial. It requires consistent effort and support in between. Seeking additional assistance for your child's well-being does not negatively affect their physical therapy.

As a parent, you are your child's greatest advocate, nurturing their full potential. Embrace this journey wholeheartedly and stand up for what is possible, for with your unwavering dedication, there are no limits to what can be achieved.

BORING, BUT NECESSARY LEGAL DISCLAIMERS

While we make every effort to share correct information, we are still learning. We will double check all of our facts but realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor / therapist may have a different way of doing things from another. We are simply presenting our views and opinions on how to address common sensory challenges, health related difficulties and what we have found to be beneficial that will be as evidenced based as possible. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or your children. Consult your child’s pediatrician/ therapist for any medical issues that he or she may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Rachel Harrington, Harkla, Jessica Hill, or any guests or contributors to the podcast, as well as any employees, associates, or affiliates of Harkla, be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast.

Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. We try our best to keep things fair and balanced, in order to help you make the best choice for you.

This podcast should not be used in any legal capacity whatsoever, including but not limited to establishing “standard of care” in a legal sense or as a basis for expert witness testimony. No guarantee is given regarding the accuracy of any statements or opinions made on the podcast.